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Peer-reviewed veterinary case report

Serratia marcescens septicemia associated with infusion of an amino acid solution in two horses.

Journal:
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Year:
1989
Authors:
Young, D R et al.
Affiliation:
Department of Clinical Studies · United States
Species:
horse

Plain-English summary

Two healthy horses developed a serious blood infection after receiving an intravenous (IV) infusion of an amino acid solution, which is a mixture of nutrients. Tests showed that the same type of bacteria, called Serratia marcescens, was present in the blood of both horses, indicating that the infusion was likely the cause of the infection. Fortunately, both horses received supportive care and antibiotics, and they were able to recover from this condition.

Abstract

Clinical septicemia developed in 2 clinically normal horses after both were administered a portion of an amino acid solution IV. Serratia marcescens was subsequently isolated from blood of both horses. The isolates were shown to be identical on the basis of antibiograms and plasmid biochemistry, incriminating the infusate as the source of bacterial infection. The horses recovered after supportive and antimicrobial treatment.

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Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2670862/